Nagpur: In the next three years all the agriculture pumps in the state will run on solar energy. A scheme to save 1000 mega watt energy through solar energy will be placed before the the government in the coming 8 days, informed State energy minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule.

Bawankule was speaking at the inauguration function of a one-day workshop on opportunities on green and solar energy. Those prominently present on the occasion were president of Indian Federation of Green Energy (IFGI) Dr Vidya Murkumbi, vice-president & former minister of state for rural development M K Anna Patil, director of Mahavitran Holding Company Vishwas Pathak, director general of Maharashtra Energy Development Agency Nitin Gadre and GM of IFGI Jai Uppal.

Bawankule further said the state has a very good opportunity in the field of green & unconventional engery sector. Till now there was no policy in the field of unconventional energy sector. The government is now deciding policy in this sector. Earlier, unconventional energy was being produced, but no agreements took place in regards to its purchase. The present government decided on PPP model and has entered into agreement to purchase 380 mega watt energy. Electricity is now available at cheaper rates in open market, hence, wind energy is costing high and its sale is affected, Bawankule said.

“The government is planning to run 40 lakh agriculture pumps in the state on solar energy. Similarly, independent feeders will be started for this purpose. One feeder will be set up for 400 agriculture pumps and several investors and companies are coming forward for this initiative. Farmers will get 12 hours electricity supply for their farms and will be able to operate it from their home itself. Similarly, solar smart village will be set up,” Bawankule said.